St. Joseph Kocholia High School’s former principal, Mr Fredrick Ouma Opiyo, has officially assumed leadership at Nambale Boys High School, replacing Mr Tom Amadi Mboya, who has since moved to Magunga Secondary School in Kisumu County.
Mr Opiyo took over on Thursday, ending weeks of speculation after two other principals declined transfers to the institution, citing a challenging external environment. Among them were Mr Wycliffe Mwamba Manoa, previously of Ramba Boys High School, who opted for Vigina Secondary in Vihiga, and Mr Didimo Mukati from Bukhalalire High, who also turned down the position.
This forced Mr Amadi to hand over temporarily to Deputy Principal Stanley Wachudi before Mr Opiyo’s appointment.
A Safe Pair of Hands for Nambale Boys
Stakeholders have expressed confidence in Mr Opiyo, describing him as a capable leader who can steer the school toward academic excellence.
Before his tenure at St. Joseph Kocholia, he served as deputy principal at Sigalame High School in Samia, where he earned a reputation for effective administration.
Principal, Nambale Boys
Renowned communication expert Mr Kennedy Buhere, whose son was mentored by Mr Opiyo at Sigalame, praised the new principal as a transformative educator.
“He is an effective listener who guides boys into becoming responsible men. His leadership at Sigalame was outstanding, and I have no doubt he will replicate that success at Nambale,” Buhere remarked.
Former students also attest to Mr Opiyo’s administrative prowess, further solidifying optimism about his new role.
Tackling Financial and Administrative Challenges
Nambale Boys High has faced significant financial struggles, including a Ksh36 million debt inherited from previous administrations. Under Mr Amadi’s leadership, the debt was reduced to Ksh14 million within two years.
However, challenges persist, including delayed staff salaries—some workers have gone unpaid for two months—a situation Mr Opiyo has vowed to address urgently.
“I was shocked to learn that staff haven’t been paid, yet the school has a strong reputation. We will streamline these issues immediately,” he assured.
Political interference has also been cited as a hindrance, with reports suggesting that local MP Geoffrey Mulanya’s involvement has disrupted administrative operations.
Despite these hurdles, Mr. Opiyo remains optimistic, acknowledging the foundation laid by his predecessor.
“Mr Amadi is my good friend, and he did commendable work here. I am proud to continue his efforts and collaborate with all stakeholders to elevate this school further,” he stated.
Diocese Pledges Support
The school’s sponsor, Nambale Diocese, has welcomed Mr Opiyo, with Bishop Rt. Rev. Isaiah Obuya affirming full support for his leadership.
Bishop ACK Diocese of Nambale
“Mr Opiyo is a seasoned administrator with a proven track record. As the sponsor, we stand ready to assist him in every way possible,” the Bishop said.
Nambale Boys High has a history of academic excellence, with two students topping Busia County in last year’s KCSE exams, each securing straight A grades.
The focus now shifts to Mr Opiyo as he takes on the task of maintaining and enhancing the institution’s academic standards amid existing challenges.
With his experience, stakeholder backing, and a clear vision, the school community is hopeful that Mr Opiyo’s tenure will mark a new chapter of growth and stability for Nambale Boys High.
